Classic Poem

A LITTLE time for laughter,
— A little time to sing,
— A little time to kiss and cling,
And no more kissing after.

A little while for scheming
— Love's unperfected schemes;
— A little time for golden dreams,
Then no more any dreaming.

A little while 'twas given
— To me to have thy love;
— Now, like a ghost, alone I move
About a ruined heaven.

A little time for speaking
— Things sweet to say and hear;
— A time to seek, and find thee near,
Then no more any seeking.

A little time for saying
— Words the heart breaks to say;
— A short sharp time wherein to pray,
Then no more need of praying;

But long, long years to weep in,
— And comprehend the whole
— Great grief that desolates the soul,
And eternity to sleep in.